Francesco Maria da Camporosso
Francesco Maria da Camporosso, born Giovanni Croese, was an Italian Capuchin friar known for his humble service and personal holiness. He is remembered for his dedicated work as an alms collector in Genoa and his compassionate care for the sick during a cholera epidemic.
- Century
- 19th century
- Country Or Region
- Italy
Key Facts
- ›He was born Giovanni Croese on December 27, 1804, in Camporosso, Italy.
- ›He joined the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin in 1822 and took the name Francesco Maria da Camporosso.
- ›He served as an alms collector for the Capuchin friars in Genoa, often facing initial hostility.
- ›He cared for victims of a cholera epidemic in August 1866 and contracted the disease himself, dying shortly after.
- ›He was declared Venerable by Pope Pius XI in 1922 and canonized as a saint by Pope John XXIII in 1962.
- ›Genoese people called him 'Padre Santo' due to his reputation for holiness.
Giovanni Croese, Padre Santo
About Francesco Maria da Camporosso
Francesco Maria da Camporosso (1804-1866), born Giovanni Croese, was an Italian Capuchin friar venerated as a saint in the Catholic Church. He is primarily remembered for his humble and devout life, particularly his dedicated service as an alms collector in Genoa.
Life and Ministry
Born Giovanni Croese in Camporosso on December 27, 1804, he joined the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin in 1822. He assumed the name Francesco Maria da Camporosso and entered the novitiate in 1825. In 1834, he was appointed as the 'quaestor,' or alms collector, for the Capuchin convent near the port of Genoa. His work involved seeking donations to support the friars and their charitable initiatives.
Initially, Francesco Maria da Camporosso faced considerable hardship, being heckled and even assaulted by people as he sought alms. His response was one of profound forgiveness; he would pick up stones thrown at him and kiss them. His reputation for personal holiness gradually spread, leading people to seek him out. He dedicated his life to providing help and comfort to those in need, embodying merciful love and setting examples of virtue, especially among the working class and the poor people of the port. He spent many hours in prayer, kneeling before the Eucharist.
During a cholera epidemic in August 1866, he ministered to the victims of the plague. Tragically, he contracted the disease himself and died on September 17, 1866. The people of Genoa affectionately called him "Padre Santo" (Holy Father) due to his perceived holiness, a title that has persisted.
Sainthood
The process for his canonization began on August 9, 1896, under Pope Leo XIII, when he was declared a Servant of God. Pope Pius XI recognized his heroic virtue and declared him Venerable on December 18, 1922. The same pope beatified him on June 30, 1929, after approving two miracles attributed to his intercession. Further confirmation of miracles led Pope John XXIII to canonize him as a saint on December 9, 1962, in Saint Peter's Basilica.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Francesco Maria da Camporosso?
Francesco Maria da Camporosso, born Giovanni Croese, was an Italian Roman Catholic professed religious from the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin. He lived from 1804 to 1866.
What is Francesco Maria da Camporosso remembered for?
He is remembered for his work as a beggar and alms collector in Genoa, where he sought donations for his friars and their charitable works. He also cared for victims of a cholera epidemic.
When was Francesco Maria da Camporosso canonized?
Pope John XXIII canonized him as a saint on December 9, 1962, inside Saint Peter's Basilica.
What was his birth name?
His birth name was Giovanni Croese.
Related Saints
Lawrence of Brindisi
Lawrence of Brindisi was an Italian Catholic priest and a member of the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin, renowned for his linguistic abilities and his role in the Counter-Reformation. He is chiefly remembered for his missionary work, preaching, and diplomatic efforts in service of the Holy See.
Ignatius of Laconi
Ignatius of Laconi was a humble Capuchin friar from Sardinia, born Francesco Ignazio Vincenzo Peis. He is remembered for his charitable work among the poor and sick, and for the numerous miracles attributed to him both during his life and after his death. His life of dedicated service led to his canonization.
Ignatius of Santhià
Ignatius of Santhià, born Lorenzo Maurizio Belvisotti, was an Italian Capuchin friar known for his dedication to the sacrament of Reconciliation and the care of the ill. He is remembered for his humble and austere life, which served as a model for many, and for his heroic virtue recognized through his canonization.